Reds bolter to start ahead of Wallabies star

Thu, Mar 9, 2017, 1:30 AM
Reds coach Nick Stiles has promoted Izack Rodda and Izaia Perese to the first XV for the first time for Saturday night's showdown with the Crusaders. They take the spots of Kane Douglas and Chris Kuridrani while Hendrik Tui has replaced Adam Korczyk

Queensland Reds coach Nick Stiles has swung the axe, dropping Wallaby Kane Douglas to hand young gun Izack Rodda his first start.

Rodda's inclusion is one of three changes to the starting XV which was rolled by the Western Force last Thursday.

Fleet-footed livewire Izaia Perese comes in for Chris Kuridrani and Hendrik Tui replaces Adam Korczyk.

At 20, Rodda impressed the Ballymore brains trust with a strong 18-minute cameo against the Sharks in round one, highlighted by a pivotal lineout steal which went a long way to winning that game.

His 119kg, 2.02m frame packs a punch when he carries the ball and Stiles has shown tremendous faith in his ability by backing him to take on the all-conquering Crusaders lineout, which has been impeccable in the first two rounds.Kane Douglas has been dropped from the Reds starting XV. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart WalmsleyDouglas can feel a touch hard done by as he has been passable in Queensland's first two games but Stiles is sending a message after the "atrocious" performance against the Force.

“The changes to the starting team reflect the depth we have in the squad at the moment," Stiles said.

"Everyone has worked hard and deserve their opportunities.

"As coaches, we want guys challenging for starting spots every week.

"There are no guarantees when it comes to selection.”Adam Korczyk is one of three Reds dumped from the starting XV. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart WalmsleyPerese's inclusion is no surprise.

He showed his capabilities when he made his debut in a 16 minute cameo in Perth, twice brushing Luke Morahan on the right wing with his powerful fend.

There isn't much of the Churchie product at 91kg but his game features lightning acceleration, fast-stepping feet and strength well above his weight.

Korczyk was immense against the Sharks in round one but just fair against the Force and with a player of Tui's capabilities sitting on the pine, Stiles has opted for fresh legs.

The Reds host the Crusaders at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night, kicking off at 7:45pm AEDT LIVE on FOX SPORTS and via radio on RUGBY.com.au.

TEAM

Reds team to take on the Crusaders

1. James Slipper (C)

2. Stephen Moore

3. Sam Talakai

4. Rob Simmons

5. Izack Rodda

6. Hendrik Tui

7. George Smith

8. Scott Higginbotham

9. Nick Frisby

10. Quade Cooper

11. Eto Nabuli

12. Duncan Paia’aua

13. Samu Kerevi

14. Izaia Perese

15. Karmichael Hunt

Reserves

16. Andrew Ready

17. Sef Fa’agase

18. Taniela Tupou

19. Kane Douglas

20. Adam Korczyk

21. James Tuttle

22. Jake McIntyre

23. Chris Kuridrani

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